While near-freezing temperatures inhabit other cities for winter, Tampa Bay remains warm and sunny. The Bay Area’s mild temperatures are ideal for getting out, exploring, and experiencing everything this holiday season, just without mittens. So check out these amazing Holiday Season events in Tampa Bay to get you in the spirit!
Christmas in the Wild
ZooTampa is going all out for the holidays with the return of Christmas in the Wild. This year is bigger and better than ever before, showcasing one of Tampa Bay’s largest light displays, tasty festive bites, and incredible wildlife for the whole family to enjoy. With a lineup of holiday-themed entertainment, the spirit of the season will truly come alive! Select nights in Nov. and Dec.
Holiday Season
Celebrate the holidays at LEGOLAND® and have a merry time with the whole family. Listen to holiday tunes around the giant LEGO tree, marvel at a stunning 360-degree light show, take photos with your favorite holiday LEGO Characters, and send a special letter to LEGO Santa. Plus, don’t miss the chance to kick off the new year with LEGO brick fireworks looking over Lake Eloise! Select dates in Nov. and Dec.
Gingerbread Village
Join the holiday fun at the Glazer Children’s Museum’s Gingerbread Village, a beloved favorite in Tampa Bay! Included with your museum admission, your family can dive into the fun and craft your very own gingerbread house using recycled materials like cardboard and pipe cleaners. Will you add it to their gingerbread village, or take it home as a sweet keepsake? Either way, it’s a delightful experience filled with laughter and creativity, perfect for creating unforgettable memories this holiday season in Tampa Bay! Starting Nov. 2
Photos with Santa
Visit International Plaza and Bay Street for a magical photo opportunity with Santa! Reservations are encouraged, and when you book, you’ll receive a free, personalized phone call from Santa before your visit. Walk-ups are also welcome! Don’t miss the special pet photo session on November 24th from 6:30 PM to 8:00 PM. Bring your furry friends and capture cherished holiday memories at Santa’s Flight Academy! Nov. 10 through Dec. 24
Christmas Town
Experience the magic of the season at Christmas Town, Busch Gardens ® Tampa Bay. Be dazzled as you stroll through the park lit up with shimmering Christmas lights, encounter fascinating animals from around the world, and ride exhilarating coasters. Enjoy festive shows and holiday-themed treats, all leading up to a spectacular firework display to cap off the night! Nov. 15th through Jan. 5th
Winter Village
Outdoor ice skating – in Florida? Festive magic makes it possible at Curtis Hixon Park’s Winter Village. The picturesque waterfront park shines in Downtown Tampa for a celebration full of jubilation and festive cheer. Take to the ice, shop locally made gifts, or hop aboard the Winter Village Express for a merry journey through Downtown, complete with onboard cookies and milk! Nov. 22 through Jan. 5
Victorian Christmas Stroll
A holiday tradition four decades in the making, Tampa Bay’s Victorian Christmas Stroll offers a unique glimpse into the past and all the Christmas season has to offer. Visitor-favorite decorations, as well as new ones, are on display and sure to dazzle. Savor complimentary cider and cookies as you enjoy the festivities, and don’t miss the live music on weekends from 6 pm – 7:45 pm! Nov. 23 through Dec. 31st
Holiday Movie Classics
Watching a holiday favorite on the big screen is one of the most cherished holiday traditions. Head over to the historic Tampa Theatre on select nights throughout November and December for showings of holiday classics like Miracle on 34th Street, Elf, and It’s a Wonderful Life. Don’t miss out on this holiday tradition—grab your tickets and get ready for a cozy, cinematic celebration! Nov. 24th through Jan. 5
Festival of Lights
Immerse yourself in a breathtaking holiday light display that will transport you and your family into a world of wonder, with over a million lights from entrance to exit. Enjoy a captivating two-mile drive-thru filled with stunning light displays, then take a stroll through Santa’s Village, where you’ll find exciting attractions, festive treats, and a chance to meet Santa himself! Nov. 28 through Dec. 29
Holiday Dinner Buffet Cruise
Get ready for a night full of holiday cheer aboard Yacht Starship! Enjoy Tampa’s beautiful skyline as you indulge in a carefully crafted holiday buffet and refreshments, and end your evening listening to holiday tunes and dancing the night away on the ship’s top deck. Nov. 29 through Dec. 30
Holiday Spectacular
The Holiday Spectacular at the Tampa Riverwalk is back! Enjoy festive cheer along the Riverwalk and through downtown Tampa as the city lights up for the holidays. Be dazzled by vibrant floating light displays, along with a magnificent 30-foot LED Christmas tree that dances along to holiday music in front of Sail Plaza. Join us for a celebration that captures the magic of the season! Nov. 29 through Jan. 2
YuleTides
Dive into the holiday spirit at YuleTides, a one-of-a-kind celebration at The Florida Aquarium! Wander through the Holiday Tree Trail, where each boat is decked out with a one-of-a-kind tree, and don’t miss the stunning Signature Tree made from upcycled beach materials. Snap a festive photo with Santa at his Wharf, then join in the fun with caroling, cookie decorating with Mrs. Claus, and meet Rocky and Tango in their holiday gear. With sand sculptures and a ton of coastal charm, YuleTides is a holiday experience unlike any other! Nov. 29 through Jan. 5
Riverwalk Tree Lighting
Join the community on the iconic Tampa Riverwalk for the 4th Annual Holiday Tree Lighting! Watch as Mayor Jane Castor sails in on a Pirate Water Taxi to flip the switch, lighting up the night with a breathtaking 35-foot floating Christmas tree. Enjoy a magical performance of “The Nutcracker” by the Tampa City Ballet, along with delicious food and fun activities for the whole family. It’s a holiday celebration packed with cheer you won’t want to miss! Dec. 1, 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM
Santa Fest & Tree Lighting
Enjoy a fun and festive parade through Downtown Tampa before Christmastime entertainment and activities take hold at the park! Later in the evening, meet Santa Claus and Tampa Mayor Jane Castor and watch them light up the tree for Tampa’s annual tree lighting ceremony. Dec. 7
Classical Christmas
Experience the magic of the season with “Classical Christmas” performed by the Florida Orchestra at the Straz Center! This enchanting concert will transport you to a cozy Christmas wonderland, featuring the talented Master Chorale of Tampa Bay. Join in the festive spirit with an audience sing-along and delightful holiday music that will fill your heart with joy. Dec. 13
Santa’s Scientific Workshop
Who said there’s no science behind the holidays? Join MOSI for Santa’s Scientific Workshop, a hands-on experience for the whole family. Meet Santa Claus and tell him all of your Christmas wishes, or write a special letter to be mailed directly to his doorstep. Unveil the scientific secrets of Santa’s sleigh ride while enjoying delicious milk and cookies! Dec. 14, 5:30 PM to 8:30 PM
Holiday Hangout Paddle
Prepare for a festive holiday hangout paddle on the water with a dazzling full moon experience! Wear your festive gear as you embark on a group adventure from Armature Works, guided by Urban Kai. Glide along the Hillsborough River, taking in the stunning views of downtown Tampa illuminated by holiday decorations and twinkling lights. A basic level of paddling is needed, so bring your sense of adventure and get ready for some festive fun! Dec. 14, 5:30 PM to 6:45 PM
Annual Winter Wonder Ride
Get ready to pedal your way into the holiday spirit with Onbikes’ 13th Annual Winter Wonder Ride! This festive bike ride takes you on a scenic tour of Tampa, starting at the iconic Curtis Hixon Park and cruising through the historic University of Tampa campus, along Bayshore Boulevard, and by the beautiful Hillsborough River. After you’ve worked up an appetite for fun, keep the celebration going at the Aprés-Ski After Party back at Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park, complete with live music, good vibes, and plenty of holiday cheer. Dec. 14, 2:00 PM to 10:30 PM
Trans-Siberian Orchestra
Experience an exciting new show with the Trans-Siberian Orchestra as they arrive in Tampa for their highly-anticipated Winter Tour. With a rock twist on holiday classics and stunning visuals, this is an event you won’t want to miss. There will be two performances at 2:30 PM and 7:00 PM. Dec. 15
Hot Chocolate Run
Embrace the holiday spirit with USA TODAY’s Tampa Hot Chocolate Run at the Tampa Convention Center! This delightful event combines fitness and festive cheer as participants of all ages enjoy a scenic run or walk through downtown Tampa. Registration includes delicious hot chocolate, free race photos, an exclusive hot chocolate run jacket, access to the post-run party, and more. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or just looking for a fun way to enjoy the day, this event is a perfect way to celebrate the season. Dec. 15
6th Annual Jingle Bell Bazaar
Join the holiday fun at the 6th Annual Jingle Bell Bazaar at Centennial Park in Historic Ybor City! This festive celebration is filled with joy and community spirit, offering live music, captivating performances, and a variety of delicious food from local food trucks. Explore unique holiday gifts from local vendors and visit Santa’s Village for arts and crafts, free face painting, and photos with Santa. Dec. 20-23
Nutcracker
Now a festive Tampa Bay tradition, the family-favorite performance of Nutcracker is back at the Straz Center for the Performing Arts! This performance features NGB’s award-winning young dancers as well as guest stars from the American Ballet Theatre. Don’t miss out on this incredible performance, filled with some of ballet’s most famous music! Dec. 20-23
Holiday Lighted Boat Parade
On Dec. 21, the Tampa Riverwalk will shimmer with the sparkle of Tampa Bay’s largest lighted boat parade. Starting at the southern tip of Davis Islands, the parade cruises through the Convention Center basin and up to the Heights. Then the flotilla will head to Sparkman Wharf for the grand finale, where the best displays will be judged. Stroll the 2.6-mile-long riverside pathway, soak up the spirit of the season, and enjoy a celebration that is uniquely Tampa Bay. Dec. 21
Holiday Lighted Boat Parade
Get the best view of Tampa’s Holiday Lighted Boat Parade on the Pirate Water Taxi for a two-hour joyful voyage on the Hillsborough River. The water taxi is illuminated with twinkling lights for this festive occasion, creating an unforgettable experience filled with holiday cheer and stunning views! Dec. 21